Dry Cough
Over the counter relief options
Do your symptoms match a dry cough?
A dry cough is a persistent, tickling, or scratchy cough that produces little to no mucus or phlegm. It is often triggered by inflammation or irritation in the throat and upper airways rather than an underlying buildup of mucus.
Dry coughs are commonly associated with viral infections such as the common cold or flu, but they can also be caused by allergies, exposure to dry air, asthma, or even irritants like smoke, dust, and perfumes.
Many people also experience hoarseness, throat soreness, or disrupted sleep because the cough tends to flare up at night.
While usually harmless and self-limiting, a dry cough can be very disruptive to daily activities, work, and rest. Recognizing the type of cough is a key to recovery.
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Pharmacist-recommended products​​
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Dextromethorphan tablets/gel capsules
Suppresses the cough reflex in the brain. Best for dry, hacking coughs without mucus, convenient to have all day and used as needed. Gel capsules are expected to produce faster results.
Dylsem 12-hr cough liquid
A long-acting cough suppressant that provides up to 12 hours of relief with less frequent dosing. it contains the same active ingredient dextromethorphan but in a long-acting form.
Robitussin Soft Chews Nighttime
Chewable tablets combining dextromethorphan (cough suppressant) and doxylamine succinate (a strong antihistamine)for bedtime cough relief as it helps suprressing the cough at nigt and promote good sleep. Watch for the drowsiness.
Nighttime Cough Syrup (Cherry Flavor)
A Liquid formula with dextromethorphan and doxylamine for nighttime use similar to soft chewable tablets. Helpful if tablets are not preferred.
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Chest Rubs
These are topical ointments that release soothing vapors to help ease coughing and improve breathing comfort, especially at night. They can be applied to the chest or back to provide gentle, aromatic relief for mild congestion and cough-related discomfort.
Child-Safe Formulas these are designed for safe, gentle relief for kids
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Children’s Delsym®
A 12-hour cough suppressant used to relieve dry, non-productive cough in children over 4 years. It contains dextromethorphan in an extended-release form, helping reduce coughing—especially at night or during school hours. It’s not for wet or mucus-producing coughs and should not be combined with other products containing dextromethorphan.
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Throat Soothing Lollipops
These are gentle, kid-friendly pops designed to ease mild throat irritation and dryness. They provide light moisture and comfort, making them a helpful option for children who don’t tolerate cough syrups. These pops are non-medicated and can be used as needed to calm and soothe the throat.
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Honey Cough Syrup Daytime
Product provides natural relief for mild cough and throat irritation using honey to soothe and coat the throat. It’s typically non-drowsy and suitable for daytime use, helping reduce coughing without strong medications. Ideal for dry or irritated throats, especially in children over one year old.
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For a simple dry cough during the day, start with dextromethorphan (Robitussin® or Delsym®).
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If the cough is disrupting sleep, nighttime formulas with doxylamine can help you rest—but avoid them during the day, as they may cause drowsiness.
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For children, stick to age-appropriate syrups, honey products, or throat soothers, as adult formulas are not safe.
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Chest rubs are a useful add-on for nighttime comfort.
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Remember: avoid cough suppressants if mucus or phlegm is present, since they can make it harder to clear the chest.
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Be cautious of sedative ingredients if you are driving or operating heavy machinery.
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